Weekend Send-Off

I’m bidding you all a happy, relaxing weekend with this music video from Leona Naess featuring footage of J.Crew’s photo shoot in and outside of Prague.  The Czech Republic is a magical place.  Enjoy.

Doyle & Doyle: A True Gem

Of all the places I find myself missing since leaving Manhattan, perhaps the most is the vintage jewel shop Doyle & Doyle.  Located on Orchard Street in the Lower East Side (conveniently just blocks away from my old apartment) this charming shop is a treasure trove for any jewelry admirer.  Their selection of antique and vintage jewels is impeccable—fun, colorful, ranging from delicate to bold…  The collage I created above is only a small taste.  Beyond the breathtaking selection, I was always impressed by the friendly atmosphere of the shop with it’s classic decor and handsome navy facade.  All the young women that work there are eager to help and there isn’t a ounce of snootiness to be found (how refreshing!).  Much of Doyle and Doyle’s collection is available online and their Style Gems Blog is certainly worth reading.

(Images courtesy of Doyle and Doyle)

Jewel Box Bedroom

This bedroom of Manhattan playwright, director and screenwriter John Patrick Shanley is a jewel box of bold colors.  I love the daring mix of the blue walls, the green stripe and the burgundy brocade-like pattern on the floor pillows.  The wood shutters are from an architectural salvage company and the bright white four-post bed sits regally in the center, as high as a dining table.   The contrast of the saturated, modern colors with the traditional bones of the apartment is fantastic—the historic moldings absolutely pop!  To see Mr. Shanley’s full three-bedroom apartment visit the The New York Times slideshow HERE.

(Image courtesy of The New York Times)

Kindred Spirit: Dabney Lee

Sometimes a girl just needs some bright, preppy prints to lift her spirits and when those times hit Dabney Lee is the girl to see!  Established in 2004, the self-eponymous stationary and home accessories company is headquartered in the artsy neighborhood of Dumbo, Brooklyn.  Judging by the styling of their product photos below I can only imagine how chic their office must be!  Every inch of the Dabney Lee At Home website is brimming with colorful, geometric, mid-century modern fun.  Of course it’s no surprise, Dabney is from California, after all…

(All images courtesy of Dabney Lee At Home)

Picture Perfect

I came across this Slim Aarons photo of the Hon Desmond Guinness and his children in Town & Country magazine some time ago and never forgot those striking sets of blue eyes.  Originally printed in 1963 in Holiday magazine, the shot was snapped at Guinness’ then recently acquired estate, Ireland’s Leixlip Castle.  Would you just look at that ikat jacket?  Pure divinity!  It may just be the most striking family photo of all time…

(Image from here)